Artist Statement

When we think of our most memorable experiences with nature, we typically conjure up moments where we have taken a step back to observe vast, grandiose landscapes with a sense of awe. We feel that it is these panoramic vistas that embody the power and beauty of nature. However, in my practice, I take a different approach. Instead of stepping back, I take a few steps forward to view the intricacies of nature with an intensely forensic eye. Doing this enables me to create depictions of nature that are rich with complex textures, colours, and subtleties. Such details enable the viewer to embark on an intimate visual journey. I find infinite fascination with this small world that is close to the ground, so close to us.

These enigmatic drawings, which are primarily created using archival coloured pencils on paper, often demonstrate the intrinsic connections between nature and humanity. Themes that I might explore include the wonderment of life, survival's battle scars, death and decay, and the symbiotic relationships between life and death / order and chaos.

I often employ an "all over" technique (similar to many abstract expressionists' paintings) where every section of the two dimensional plane is of equal importance. Such a strategy has the tendency of obscuring the foreground-background perspective and, instead, promoting a more heightened awareness of the many layers of imagery that may be present. It also introduces an element of ambiguity where the viewer may enter into a realm that is not so cohesive and knowable.